My power steering seems to be making a whining/creaking noise when manouvering the car from stationary. I have also noticed a lot of play in the wheel and a very noticable knocking when moving the wheel from side to side ( within the play )

It doesn't look good does it ?? Is my rack shagged ??

Might pay to pop into a dealer asap - I read in the Auto Express within the last few weeks that they had trouble with their long term Octy - knocking etc., with the steering - a steering link or arm had worked loose.

If it's happened to one car; it can happen to another.............................

Not saying that's your problem though. Hope the info might be of some help to you.